Where Can I Recycle Old Televisions?

Disposing of an old TV can be tricky. Unlike tossing out regular trash, old televisions require special handling due to hazardous materials. So, where can you recycle your old TV? This guide provides several options for responsible and sustainable TV disposal.

Recycle Televisions with image of a TV

Manufacturer Recycling Programs

Many television manufacturers offer take-back programs for their products, including TVs. These programs make it easy to recycle your old TV responsibly.

• Check the Manufacturer’s Website: Most major TV brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, and Vizio have information on their websites about how to recycle their products. Look for sections on sustainability, recycling, or product stewardship. You’ll likely find details on how to ship your TV back or drop it off at a designated location.

• Contact Customer Support: If you can’t find recycling information online, contact the manufacturer’s customer support directly. They can provide specific instructions for recycling your particular TV model.

• Texas Recycles TVs Program: The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) provides a helpful resource listing manufacturers participating in the Texas Recycles TVs program. This list, found on the TCEQ website, includes links to individual manufacturer recycling programs and contact information.

Local Recycling Options

Beyond manufacturer programs, there are several local options for recycling your old television:

• Electronics Recyclers: Search online for “electronics recyclers near me” to find local businesses specializing in electronics recycling. Many of these recyclers accept televisions and will properly handle their disposal. Some may charge a small fee for this service.

• Retailer Take-Back Programs: Some major retailers, particularly electronics stores like Best Buy, offer take-back programs for electronics, including TVs. Check with your local retailers to see if they participate in such programs. Best Buy, for example, has a robust electronics recycling program.

• Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Programs: Certain household hazardous waste (HHW) collection programs may accept televisions. Check with your local municipality or county for information on HHW collection events and locations.

Why Recycle Your Old TV?

Recycling your old television is crucial for several reasons:

• Environmental Protection: TVs contain hazardous materials like lead and mercury that can leach into the environment if not disposed of properly. Recycling helps prevent these materials from contaminating soil and water. Landfill disposal should be avoided to mitigate these risks.

• Resource Conservation: Recycling recovers valuable materials from old TVs, reducing the need to mine new resources. This conserves natural resources and reduces the environmental impact of manufacturing new televisions.

• Compliance with Regulations: In many areas, it’s illegal to dispose of electronics in regular trash. Recycling ensures compliance with these regulations and avoids potential fines.

Conclusion

Recycling your old TV is a responsible and environmentally friendly choice. By utilizing manufacturer take-back programs, local electronics recyclers, or HHW programs, you can ensure your old television is disposed of properly. Remember to always prioritize responsible recycling methods to protect the environment and conserve valuable resources.